Award-winning actress Mia McKenna-Bruce has made a surprising confession about her knowledge of The Beatles, revealing she knew remarkably little about the legendary band before securing a major role in their upcoming cinematic biopics.
From 'Not My Jam' to Biopic Star
The 28-year-old star, who is set to portray Maureen Starkey, the first wife of Sir Ringo Starr, in The Beatles – A Four-Film Cinematic Event, admitted to Tatler magazine that she initially couldn't name the band members. She described their iconic music as "wasn't my jam" during her school days, where she sang classics like 'Eleanor Rigby' and 'Yellow Submarine'.
McKenna-Bruce expressed relief at finally being able to discuss the role publicly, having kept the secret for nearly a year. "Finally, I can talk about it," she said. "I’ve known for near-on-a year, but I couldn’t tell my family. I love them all but they have the biggest mouths in the world."
A Dramatic Shift in Perspective
Despite her initial unfamiliarity, the actress's view of The Beatles' music has transformed since her casting. She recounted an awkward moment on the set of her Agatha Christie drama, The Seven Dials Mystery, where co-star Martin Freeman quizzed her. "Martin Freeman was asking me to name all the Beatles – I didn’t know. Then he’d ask me, ‘what band was Mick Jagger in?’ I was like, ‘I have no idea, Martin’," she revealed.
Now, however, she has become a genuine appreciator. "Now, I’m like, Oh my God, The Beatles are underrated. This is good. It’s music I’d sit and listen to on the train," McKenna-Bruce stated. The Beatles, formed in 1960, remain history's best-selling musical act, with 18 UK number one singles and 16 UK number one albums.
Star-Studded Projects and Personal Growth
The ambitious Beatles project is directed by acclaimed British filmmaker Sir Sam Mendes and is scheduled for release in April 2028. It will consist of four interconnected films, each offering a distinct perspective on the band's rise and cultural impact. The cast also includes Aimee Lou Wood, Saoirse Ronan, and Anna Sawai.
Beyond the biopic, McKenna-Bruce stars in the Netflix adaptation of Agatha Christie's The Seven Dials Mystery, premiering January 15. She plays Lady Eileen "Bundle" Brent in the 1920s-set series, which features Helena Bonham Carter and Martin Freeman. She praised the series for achieving a "really cool and modern" tone while staying true to Christie's spirit.
The actress also opened up about how motherhood, after welcoming her son Leo in August 2023, has bolstered her confidence professionally. "Being a mother gives you confidence, because now I have something to fight for. It’s propelled me into having a voice," she explained.
The full interview is available in the February issue of Tatler magazine, on sale from January 8.
